Constipation

Constipation is one common problem in pregnancy, many pregnant woman get it during their pregnancy. Constipation is the condition where the food in our body can not get out from the body. When I am pregnant, I also get the constipation. Not just in pregnancy, also when the baby is born, in four days after, I get the constipation. And I ask my doctor to solve these problems.

As with all symptoms of pregnancy there is a reason for constipation. When you are pregnant your body creates progesterone which in turns relaxes the muscles of the bowels and causes your digestive tracks to work much slower. Your digestive track works slower to make sure your body absorbs the nutrients from your food for your baby. This can create constipation, which if it not kept under control, can lead to hemorrhoids.

You can solve this problem by eating plenty of high fibre foods like whole grain cereal and oatmeal. Fibre is needed to avoid this constipation, because fibre can absorbs water and can help to soften your stools and speed their passage.

Fresh fruits are also an excellent way to get your fibre in. Melons and plums have a high amount of fibre in them as wells as dried fruits like figs, raisins, apricots and of course the well known favourite prunes. Prunes and prune juice have a like laxative effect and will help keep things moving properly in your body. Aim to eat at least 25 to 30 grams of fibre a day. You can tell you are getting enough fibre if your stools are large and soft and you aren't straining to pass them. Keep in mind though that too much fibre can lead to diarrhea which can lead to dehydration so do not over do the fibre in your diet.

Also, drinking plenty of fluid will help you combat constipation. Fluids help keep digestive products moving through your system so it is very important for you to drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day. Keeping up with your fluids is important especially if you are increasing your intake of fibre. Your body needs to water to soak up the fibre otherwise it can cause more constipation.

Also, make sure you are eating your yogurt if you can. Yogurt has a bacteria called acidophilus that helps stimulate the intestinal bacteria to break down food better.

Avoid foods that can lead to constipation. White bread and some cereals such as corn flakes can lead to constipation as well as white rice and bananas.

If all this fails, contact your doctor to see if there is something you can take to help keep you regulated. Most doctors will allow you to take Metamucil to help keep things moving.